Dizziness is a common side effect of pregnancy caused by hormonal changes, increased strain on the circulatory system, and low blood sugar or anemia. It can be managed by getting up slowly and eating healthy meals regularly, but severe or frequent dizziness may require medical attention.
Pregnancy causes a number of changes in the body and the increased strain it places on the circulatory system can cause dizziness in some women. Vertigo is a type of dizziness usually described as a feeling that everything is spinning. Side effects associated with dizziness such as nausea and vomiting are also common during pregnancy. This dizziness affects women differently and for some the dizziness can disappear after a few seconds, while for others the condition can be more debilitating and last for hours. Dizziness may be just another side effect of pregnancy or it may be a symptom of a more serious medical condition.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur and blood vessels open more. The blood is then more easily able to flow to the baby, but conversely the blood returning to the mother can be restricted and cause vertigo symptoms. Usually, dizziness during pregnancy seems to be triggered by some activity such as a sudden change in balance from lying down to standing. The excess weight found during pregnancy also slows down circulation and makes it more likely that blood will pool in the lower limbs. This can cause dizziness when standing up because the heart may not be able to pump blood to the brain fast enough to adjust to this rapid change in body position. To avoid this problem, pregnant women can get up slowly and move their leg muscles to help move blood back to the heart.
Another factor that may be responsible for the relationship between dizziness and pregnancy is not eating consistently. Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can be a side effect of pregnancy triggered by not eating often enough or not eating large enough portions to support the pregnant mother and developing fetus. As a result, blood sugar levels may drop. Alternatively, the condition may be caused by gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy or in women with pre-existing diabetes. Regardless of the cause, it is generally recommended to eat healthy meals at regular intervals to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Dizziness and pregnancy can also be caused by anemia. This blood disorder is associated with a low number of red blood cells, which can limit the amount of oxygen carried throughout the body. Anemia during pregnancy can be a serious concern, causing a variety of problems for both mother and baby. Pregnant women with anemia may experience shortness of breath and become extremely fatigued. Without proper treatment, babies may not develop as quickly as they should, and premature birth may be more likely to occur.
Usually, dizziness in pregnancy is not a cause for concern. If the condition is worsening in severity or frequency, however, pregnant women may wish to speak to their doctors for advice. Generally, when dizziness and pregnancy present with vaginal bleeding, severe migraine, or abdominal pain, immediate medical attention may be needed.
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